what is smart app control? how to turn it off
Smart App Control is a Windows security feature that helps block untrusted, potentially unwanted, or malicious apps before they run. It checks app safety using Microsoft’s cloud intelligence and Windows code integrity, and it blocks unknown or unsigned code by default.
What it does
- Lets known-safe apps run.
- Blocks apps Microsoft judges as malicious or potentially unwanted.
- If Microsoft cannot confidently judge an app, it allows only properly signed apps from trusted certificate authorities.
How to turn it off
- Open Windows Security.
- Go to App & browser control.
- Open Smart App Control settings.
- Switch it to Off and confirm.
Important note
Turning Smart App Control off is generally permanent on that Windows installation unless Windows is reset or reinstalled. Microsoft also says there is no per-app bypass for this feature.
What to expect
Disabling it may help if a trusted app is being blocked, but it also removes a layer of protection against malicious or unwanted software. For most people, leaving it on is safer unless you have a specific compatibility problem.
| Feature | Behavior |
|---|---|
| Smart App Control on | Blocks risky, unknown, or unsigned apps by default. |
| Smart App Control off | Stops that protection until Windows is reset or reinstalled. |